Jan van Berkel wins Pan American Cup in Lima (04.04.2011)

After the end of his studies, Jan van Berkel has successfully started his career as a pro triathlete with winning the Pan American Cup in Lima.

An international field was on the start line of the Olympic distance triathlon in the Peruvian capital. The race started under tough conditions – in 17 degrees cold water of the Pacific. Jan came out of the water just seconds behind the leaders, but still, he and some chasers needed 5 km to close the gap to the front of the race. Jan then controlled the field by countering all attacks from strong runners and stayed at the front all the way through the dangerous roads of Lima to avoid being one of the many crashing athletes. Onto the run, he immediately set the pace which his contenders were only able to follow for two kilometres. The rest of the run Jan developed a comfortable lead until the finish.

"I am happy with this win, especially after the hard time of combining my law study and triathlon training. I feel that there is more air to improve for the next races. My coach John Hellemanns keeps me working well and I feel fresh, motivated and ready getting into the deciding period of training for the Olympic selection."

Jan will race another Pan American Cup in Mazatlan next weekend.